Willard Duane Dancer

Willard Duane Dancer passed away Monday, July 15, 2013 at Horizon Senior Living, in Gladwin, MI at the age of 94. Willard was born August 2, 1918 in Wheeler, Michigan the son of Willard and Ethel (Dancer) Thorpe, yet was raised by his uncle William and his aunt Arvilla Dancer.
He was united in marriage to Ireta (Woods) on January 2, 1942 in Gladwin, MI. Willard worked in the oil fields with Pure Oil prior to founding Dancer & Sons Well Drilling in 1952, finally retiring at 80 years old. The 61 year old ongoing business, in which he had the pleasure of working with his two sons, was his passion in life. He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose-Harrison Lodge 2235; John J. Carton Masonic Lodge #436 of Harrison; a 32nd degree Master Mason; a founding member of the Harrison Sportsman’s Club and was also a member of the Harrison City Council, Harrison Fire Department and the Michigan Water Well Drilling Association. Willard developed Dancer’s subdivision and built over 25 homes in the vicinity.
Willard enjoyed hunting since 1931 when he shot his first buck and continued his tradition through 79 licenses. He had a huge appreciation for the outdoors and gardening.
Willard is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Ireta; two children Dale (Anne) Dancer of Clare and Lee (Shari) Dancer of Harrison; grandchildren: Terry (Nancy) Dancer, Jennifer (Rich) Magnus, Steven (Jennifer) Dancer, Teresa (Ian) Humphres, Tony (Melanie) Dancer and Brian Dancer; great-grandchildren: David, Danielle, Matthew, Jordan, Kathryn, Orion, Darren and another on the way; a great-great-grandchild, Anabelle, and another on the way. Willard was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his aunt and uncle.
Funeral services for Willard will take place Friday, July 19, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. from First Congregational Church, 211 W. Spruce St. Harrison. Visitation will be Thursday, July 18, 2013 from 2-8 pm at Stocking Funeral Home. Those wishing to give a memorial contribution are asked to consider the Harrison Sportsman’s Club, Harrison Masonic Lodge or First Congregational Church. Those wishing to share an online condolence please visit: www.stockingfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted with Stocking Funeral Home, Inc.